Health and well-being:A community commitment

SMU is committed to providing an educational environment that supports students’ health and well-being while they pursue their academic and personal goals. This commitment is fundamental to our mission as a University and as a community of trust whose members live, learn and work together.

Live Responsibly is a theme that not only encompasses concern for problems such as alcohol and substance abuse, but also a commitment to uphold SMU's high standards of behavior through its Code of Conduct. A healthy environment is one that is based on mutual respect, responsible behavior and fair treatment. This site contains important information on procedures and resources that can help all SMU students to Live Responsibly in a caring community.

In October 2012 SMU President R. Gerald Turner charged the President's Task
Force on Sexual Misconduct Policies and Procedures with re-examining SMU’s procedures and policies in comparison with benchmark practices. In April 2013 the Task Force presented its recommendations to President
Turner, all of which he accepted. Read more about the Task Force,
including its full report. The SMU community has implemented many of the task force’s recommendations for revised and new initiatives, including increased education, communication and training.

Sexual misconduct is a serious issue at universities and colleges across the country. By providing an internal grievance process and offering education about sexual misconduct, SMU seeks to provide an environment in which students feel comfortable coming forward to report violations, in which violators are held accountable and in which all students are treated fairly.

Substance Abuse Prevention

SMU has a permanent Commission on Substance Abuse Prevention, made up of mental health experts, student life administrators, faculty and students, which meets regularly to assess the University’s efforts and outcomes. The Commission’s 2012-13 report and previous reports are online.